Legend of Kiko Alonso continues to grow for Buffalo Bills
By Jason Marcum
The biggest steal of the 2013 NFL Draft thus far has been that of Buffalo Bills linebacker Kiko Alonso. Drafted just 46th overall, Alonso has been a big surprise, looking like an early front-runner for the Defensive Rookie of the Year award while notching 44 tackles, four interceptions, four passes defensed, one sack and one forced fumble in five games, and was just named September’s Defensive Rookie of the Month.
"“When he came in, right away it was like he’s moving a lot faster than everybody else,” Bills coach Doug Marrone said. “Our expectations are high and we’re excited about him. He’s actually getting better and better each week, too, all little things that maybe people can’t see.”"
Alonso has started every game this year, and seems to be making at least one game-changing play every week. His signature play of the year thus far was his diving interception of Joe Flacco in Week Four to seal the win against the Baltimore Ravens.
"“I mean, he’s amazing,” said fellow linebacker Manny Lawson. “To be young and coming into this league, he’s not necessarily just making a name for himself – he’s making a statement. He plays every snap. He covers sideline to sideline. He’ll rush, he’ll drop and I know he’ll hit you. He’s a playmaker in every sense.”"